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O magnum mysterium

Introduction

O magnum mysterium is pervaded by the same tenderness and refinement found in Lux aeterna; indeed, this refulgent work was written in 1994, just before Lauridsen began to contemplate the composition of the larger score. The composer has disclosed that this motet is an ‘affirmation of God’s grace to the meek … a quiet song of profound inner joy’. With a text from Christmas Matins that has been set by such disparate composers as Victoria and Poulenc, Lauridsen’s O magnum mysterium expresses mystical awe at the mystery of the Incarnation as well as the very human tenderness of the Virgin Mary for her newborn child.

'Stephen Layton directs the performances and deserves major credit for the very high standards evident on this compilation' (BBC Music Magazine)'This is a disc for listening to in peace, after the Christmas Day festivites are over and the visitors have gone' (The Daily Telegraph)» More

'David Hill's Advent programme imaginatively mingles antiphons, carols, hymns and motets. Favourites alternate with relative rarities such as Edward N ...'This recording holds some of the most exquisite choral singing I have ever heard. They must be one of the finest choirs in England. Not only is the t ...» More

A must-have for choral-aficionados. The King’s Singers, instantly recognisable for their spot-on intonation, impeccable vocal blend, flawless articulation and incisive timing, join forces with The Concordia Choir—one of America’s finest a cappella ...» More

'Exquisitely sung by Polyphony with strong support from the Britten Sinfonia under Stephen Layton' (The Observer)'The music has freshness and an affecting emotional pull to it that explains its popularity with singers and audiences across the pond. Stephen Layton ...» More

It was with the setting of the Christmas Matins text O magnum mysterium that the American composer, Morten Lauridsen (born 1943) gained an international reputation. The premiere was given in 1994 by the Los Angeles Master Chorale at the beginning of Lauridsen’s association with them as their composer-in-residence. Among his best-known works are his other a cappella motets Ave Maria and Ubi caritas, as well as the larger-scale Lux aeterna. Composers over the centuries, notably Victoria and Lassus, have been drawn to the words of O magnum mysterium which depict, in Lauridsen’s words, ‘the birth of the new-born King amongst the lowly animals and shepherds’. Lauridsen continues: ‘This affirmation of God’s grace to the meek and the adoration of the Blessed Virgin are celebrated in my setting through a quiet song of profound inner joy.’ In its serene but purposeful progress, the music captures the awe and wonder of the mystery of the Incarnation.